The Rivers State Government has clarified that its annual ₦100,000 Christmas bonus is paid to all civil servants, public office holders and pensioners on the state payroll, without discrimination.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, made the clarification in a statement issued in response to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) commendation of the recent payment of the bonus.
Dr Sirawoo explained that the bonus is disbursed across board to all workers, including pensioners, captured on the Rivers State Government payroll system.
While he declined to comment on reports that members of the Rivers State House of Assembly rejected the payment, the permanent secretary noted that the ₦100,000 Christmas bonus has been paid consistently for the past three years to civil servants, public office holders and pensioners.
According to him, the bonus has become an annual practice and is intended as a token of appreciation for the dedication and service of workers throughout the year.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State House of Assembly on Tuesday disclosed that it had returned the sum of ₦100,000 credited to the personal bank accounts of its members, describing the transfers as unsolicited and unapproved.
In a statement signed by Hon. Enemi George, the Assembly said the funds were credited on 30 December 2025 following instructions from the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, without legislative approval.
The lawmakers said they took immediate steps to return the money to the account of the Rivers State Government upon discovering the transfers, insisting that all public expenditures must follow due process, including legislative authorization, in line with constitutional provisions.
However, Dr Sirawoo stressed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains committed to implementing proactive measures that provide a social safety net for state employees and their families.
He added that the state government regards the NLC not merely as a labour union but as a critical partner in the “Rivers First” development agenda, noting that the union’s public acknowledgement of the bonus reflects the cordial relationship between the administration and the workforce.
According to him, workers remain the greatest pride of the Rivers State Government.
“While this bonus is meant to brighten the festive season, our long-term focus remains the continuous improvement of the working environment and the welfare of everyone serving Rivers State,” he said.
